There’s nothing quite like hosting friends and diving into a delicious, warm dip that sparks joy and conversation. Just imagine the creamy, cheesy blend of shrimp and crab melting together, crowned with a golden layer of Parmesan, bubbling away in the oven. This Shrimp and Crab Dip, reminiscent of the Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip, emerged from my kitchen during a casual Friday night gathering. I was determined to impress without spending hours slaving away at the stove.
A friend had brought over a bottle of crisp white wine, and as we sipped, the idea of a rich seafood dip sparked my creativity. Made with simple pantry staples and a few seafood delights, it’s a dish that elevates any gathering with its elegant yet comforting flavor. Whether you’re hosting a spirited game night or a cozy get-together, this dip not only satisfies but also delights with its vibrant taste. Let’s dive into making this indulgent seafood treasure that’ll leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Why is Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This dip showcases a delightful fusion of shrimp and crab that brings a seafood lover’s dream to life.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an impressive dish on the table without a hassle.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a fancy dinner, this dip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Creamy Texture: The blend of cheeses melds to create a rich and creamy base that’s simply irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Topped with golden Parmesan, it looks as good as it tastes!
For more amazing dip ideas, don’t miss our delicious creamy crab dip!
Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip Ingredients
For the Base
• Tiny shrimp – Use canned shrimp for quick prep, but fresh shrimp can elevate the flavor.
• Crab meat – I recommend lump crab for a more upscale taste, but canned works well for convenience.
• Cream cheese – Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps to sauté the flour for a deeper flavor.
• Flour – This thickens the dip, ensuring a creamy texture without being too runny.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the richness of the cheeses.
• Crushed garlic – A must for adding that aromatic punch!
• Prepared horseradish – Gives a subtle kick that complements the seafood beautifully.
For the Cheesy Blend
• Grated asiago cheese – Adds a savory depth; you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – A great addition to enhance the salty, nutty notes.
• Half and half – This is the secret to achieving that velvety smoothness; you can use heavy cream for a richer dip.
For the Marinara
• Prepared Barilla marinara sauce – Using premade sauce saves time; just drain it to avoid excess liquid.
For the Topping
• Fresh Parmesan cheese – Finely shredded, it creates a golden crust that’s irresistible when baked.
This Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip is simple to make and will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Make Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip
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Heat oil: In a skillet, over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. This will help sauté the flour nicely and build the flavor base for your dip.
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Whisk flour: Add the flour to the skillet, whisking it together with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly browned, forming a roux that helps thicken your dip.
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Stir in creaminess: Incorporate the cream cheese and half and half into the skillet. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, resembling a luscious sauce.
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Add seafood and cheeses: Gently fold in the tiny shrimp, crab meat, asiago cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, crushed garlic, and horseradish. Mix until all ingredients are well combined; the textures should be inviting and creamy.
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Combine with marinara: Gently mix the seafood blend with the prepared Barilla marinara sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary to achieve the perfect balance.
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Transfer to baking dish: Pour your delightful mixture into a baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly spread out, then sprinkle the top with extra shredded Parmesan cheese for that melty, golden crust.
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Bake: Place the dish in the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is bubbling and golden brown, creating an enticing aroma that fills your kitchen.
Optional: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for delightful dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, let your creativity shine and customize this dip to your heart’s content!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick that elevates the flavor profile and warms up your gathering.
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Seafood Medley: Mix in scallops or lobster for a more decadent seafood experience, transforming the dish into an upscale treat fit for a special occasion.
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Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh dill or chives for a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall taste and bringing a lovely aroma to your dip.
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Smoky Flavor: Stir in a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a depth of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds and gives a unique twist.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or artichoke hearts for a lovely color contrast and a nutritious addition that complements the seafood perfectly.
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Cheesy Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for varied flavors; they can add a delightful creaminess or a hint of heat.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the dip with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for an irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip.
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Creamier Base: Swap half and half for mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier dip that’s sure to impress and satisfy even the hungriest guests.
How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain that delightful creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the dip for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Wrap Suggestions: If you choose to freeze, use plastic wrap to cover the dip tightly before sealing the container to prevent freezer burn.
What to Serve with Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip?
Imagine the comforting and rich flavors of a dip that invites laughter and warmth, perfectly paired with delightful side dishes.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside for a satisfying crunch and easy dipping, these are always a crowd favorite.
- Fresh Veggie Platter: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers add a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy dip with their crisp texture.
- Toasty Baguette Slices: A warm, crusty baguette is ideal for scooping, soaking up all that delicious seafood goodness! Make sure to brush them with garlic butter for added flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Fluffy and buttery, they echo the flavors in the dip while providing an irresistible chew.
- Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing make for a vibrant, fresh contrast to the dip’s richness.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully, enhancing the seafood experience while keeping the palette refreshed.
- Light Lemon Sorbet: End the meal on a refreshing note; this sorbet cleanses the palate and is a delightful counterpoint to the savory dip.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Offering a selection of cheeses such as gouda or brie can add elegance to your spread and complement the seafood flavors beautifully.
No matter which pairings you choose, your gathering will surely be filled with joy and delectable bites!
Make Ahead Options
These Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip components are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy base with shrimp, crab meat, cheeses, and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and transfer to a baking dish; then cover and refrigerate. For the best results, allow the dip to come to room temperature before baking, which helps achieve an even bake and deliciously creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, just sprinkle the top with fresh Parmesan and pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy gourmet flavors without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip
- Choose Quality Seafood: Use fresh or high-quality canned shrimp and crab; it makes a significant difference in flavor. Avoid overly processed types.
- Control Creaminess: Adjust the amount of half and half according to your desired thickness. Too much can make the dip runny, so add gradually.
- Perfectly Browned Roux: Don’t rush the roux process! Cooking the flour mixture for 1-2 minutes adds depth; undercooking can leave a raw taste.
- Herb Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an additional flavor layer; it beautifully complements your Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip!
- Avoid Excess Marinara: Drain the marinara sauce well to prevent a watery dip. Too much liquid can spoil the creamy texture you seek.
Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp and crab should I use?
I recommend using high-quality canned shrimp and lump crab meat for the best flavor. If you prefer a fresher taste, fresh shrimp can elevate this dip even more. Be sure to drain and reserve the liquid for added depth in your recipe!
How should I store leftover dip?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dip?
Absolutely! You can freeze your dip for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top as it may expand during freezing. For easy serving later, cover tightly with plastic wrap before sealing the container.
What if my dip turns out too runny?
If you find your dip is too runny, it may be due to excess marinara sauce or half and half. Next time, drain the marinara better to reduce liquid and gradually add only enough half and half to achieve a creamy consistency. If you’re already at the point of no return, try adding a little extra flour to thicken the dip while it heats up.
Is this dip safe for people with seafood allergies?
Unfortunately, this Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip contains shrimp and crab, making it unsuitable for individuals with seafood allergies. If you want to create a similar experience without seafood, consider using a creamy cheese-based dip with herbs and spices for a delightful alternative!
What’s the best way to serve the dip?
I love serving my dip hot, straight from the oven, with crispy tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices. Arrange them on a platter for an impressive presentation, and watch your guests dive right in!
Delicious Olive Garden San Remo Seafood Dip for Home Chefs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers.
- Add the flour to the skillet, whisking it together with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Incorporate the cream cheese and half and half into the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the tiny shrimp, crab meat, asiago cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, crushed garlic, and horseradish.
- Mix with the prepared Barilla marinara sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Pour your mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle extra shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.